The Cibola and Santa Fe National Forests surrounding Torreon, New Mexico contain numerous dispersed camping areas across rugged high-desert terrain. Most sites sit at elevations between 7,000-8,500 feet, where summer daytime temperatures typically reach the 80s but nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in July and August. Roads accessing these primitive camping areas frequently require high-clearance vehicles, with several routes becoming impassable after rainfall.
What to do
Explore trails from camp: At Forest Service Road Large Camp, campers have direct access to the Continental Divide Trail for day hiking or backpacking. One visitor noted the area is "right off the Continental Divide Trail, and has two fire rings."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas near dispersed camping sites provide opportunities for spotting elk and deer, particularly at dawn and dusk. At American Springs, one camper described "Elk grazing below were the cherry on top" of their camping experience.
Stargazing: The remote locations and minimal light pollution make these camping areas ideal for night sky observation. A camper at Cuba Highway Pulloff reported "we had a full moon that night and the area was lit up, bright as a cloudy day!"
Spring fishing: Seasonal creeks and nearby lakes offer fishing opportunities from spring through fall. Fenton Lake sites provide convenient water access, with one camper mentioning, "close enough to the lake that I drove over to kayak after setting up camp."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas near Torreon offer substantial separation between sites. A visitor to Road 378, Fenton Lake mentioned "The clearings are far enough apart that you can make some noise without bothering the other campers."
Uncrowded camping: Even during peak periods, these remote camping areas remain relatively quiet. One camper shared that "Very peacefull and great night stars" were highlights of their stay in the region.
Terrain options: Campers can choose between open meadows or forested sites depending on preference. A visitor to Resumidero Camping Area appreciated that "it was perfect. The camp sites were far apart and you could chose between open meadows or in the trees."
Canyon views: Several camping areas offer scenic vistas across the surrounding landscape. At American Springs, a reviewer mentioned "Very peaceful with a nice view down the canyon" as a highlight of their stay.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require navigating rough forest roads. One camper at American Springs warned of "a large washout just past the first site" and noted the road is "quite rocky."
Vehicle requirements: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for accessing most camping areas. A visitor at Ojito Wilderness reported they "took a 34 ft 5th wheel in but if you dont feel confident with your ability you may pass" and another camper had to "turn around at mile 3 of 10" due to poor road conditions.
Temperature preparation: Due to high elevation, nights get cold even in summer. A camper at Road 378 noted "It does get cold at night since at approximately 8,000 elevation."
Water sources: No reliable water sources exist at most dispersed sites. All water must be brought in, with no natural springs or filtered water available at any of the primitive camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Camping with children: Choose established sites with basic amenities for easier family camping. At Cibola National Forest Lobo Canyon Campground, families will find "plenty of spots to choose from" and the campground is "nestled in the trees and has plenty of shade for the summer months."
Site selection for privacy: For families needing more space, look for the larger clearings. One camper at Road 378 described it as having "multiple clearing along this road. Each one is big enough for several cars and even a couple groups."
Safety considerations: Many sites lack cell service and are remote from emergency services. At Cuba Highway Pulloff, a camper warned about trash issues, noting "It's a bummer people throw so much trash and glass bottles around," which could pose hazards for children.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about potential wildlife encounters. Several camping areas have reports of cattle, elk, and other animals wandering through camp. One camper mentioned "Many cows wandering about in the area" at their campsite.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas cannot accommodate large RVs. A visitor to Star Dance noted the challenging terrain but found the destination "beautiful beyond words. It's an enchanting, magical healing place."
Boondocking preparation: No hookups exist at any dispersed sites. One RVer at Cuba Highway Pulloff shared they "decided to boondock here for the night with a generator for AC (traveling with dogs)" because there was "not much in the area available for hook up rv sites."
Access challenges: Many forest roads have steep sections unsuitable for longer rigs. An RVer noted "The road in is steep for long rigs" at Cuba Highway Pulloff, limiting access for larger vehicles.
Leveling issues: Prepare leveling blocks as most sites have uneven natural terrain. The primitive camping areas typically have no site preparation, requiring RVers to find the flattest section of ground available.
